Paneer Bhurji
Paneer bhurji is a wonderful North Indian meal, blending creamy paneer with the warmth of cumin and the sweetness of vine tomatoes. Colourful vegetables and aromatic spices fill up the bowl for a delicious lunch or dinner. Enjoy it for a meal that brings the whole family together.
Ingredients
|
Cumin
|
1 tsp |
|---|---|
|
Oil
|
6 tbsp |
|
Onions
|
150 g |
|
Vine tomatoes
|
200 g |
|
Turmeric
|
¾ tsp |
|
Salt
|
1 tsp |
|
Chilli powder
|
1 tsp |
|
Green peppers
|
100 g |
|
Red peppers
|
100 g |
| 450 g | |
|
Garam masala
|
1 tsp |
|
Coriander seeds, finely chopped
|
4 tsp |
Selecting the right paneer
Choosing the right paneer gives the best texture and taste in this recipe. Find a block that is firm but soft when pressed. The fresh kind often tastes better than the packaged types. If you use store-bought, make sure it is not expired and has been kept cold.
Prepare fresh for the best taste
Prepare paneer bhurji just before serving to ensure the paneer stays soft and the spices retain their full aroma. Freshly made, the meal has a warmth and vibrancy that is difficult to replicate when reheated.
Adjust the spice level
Turn up the heat or keep it mild – it is all up to you. Add pav bhaji masala, extra green chillies, or a punchier red chilli powder to amp up the spiciness. Make it your own and find the perfect balance of warmth and spice!
FAQ: Questions about paneer bhurji
Our recipe for paneer bhurji highlights the bold flavours and quick preparation of this North Indian classic. Below, you will find answers to common questions, ideas for variations, and creative ways to use leftovers.
What is paneer bhurji?
Paneer bhurji is a popular North Indian dish made with crumbled paneer, herbs, and spices. It is a delicious alternative to egg bhurji and is often enjoyed with bread, roti, or paratha. The recipe involves cooking paneer with a spiced onion-tomato mix, creating savoury and tangy notes.
How does the dry version of paneer bhurji differ from the gravy version?
The dry version of paneer bhurji is a quick, homestyle preparation with crumbled paneer and vegetables cooked without sauce. It is light and pairs well with toast, roti, or paratha. The gravy version, on the other hand, includes a spiced tomato-onion sauce and is often enjoyed with naan or paratha, making it a more robust choice.
What can I do with leftover paneer bhurji?
Use leftover paneer bhurji in sandwiches, wraps, or rolls. You can also grill it to add a smoky aroma. These options make it a versatile filling for an easy meal or snack, giving a tasty twist to your leftovers.
Nutritional values
Nutritional value, per
885 Kcal
| Fibre | 13.5 gram fibers |
| Protein | 5.4 gram |
| Carbohydrates | 21.3 gram |
| Fat | 87.8 gram |
Cook a quick and easy paneer bhurji
Paneer bhurji transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and satisfying meal. Crumbled paneer is brought to life with warming spices and fresh vegetables, making it a versatile option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
This recipe is also quick to prepare, ideal for a leisurely evening meal or a gathering with loved ones. Watching the spices blend with the cheese and vegetables creates an aromatic experience that makes the cooking process as delightful as enjoying the dish itself.
Bursting with fresh and colourful veggies
Paneer bhurji is built partly on the backbone of well-cooked vegetables. Here, the red and green peppers add a gentle crunch and natural sweetness, while the vine tomatoes lend an important subtle tanginess, great for balancing the warming spices. Sprinkle freshly chopped coriander on top and witness how it ties it all into a colourful and delicious meal.
Seasoned perfectly with warm, traditional spices
The warming aroma of cumin, the golden glow of turmeric, and the gentle kick of garam masala come together to create an unmistakable Indian quality. These spices help build up the flavours of the tomatoes and paneer while warming you with every bite, making this recipe a true reflection of the spices and seasonings of Indian cooking.
Serve a North Indian classic with sides
Paneer bhurji is an excellent dish that goes well with a variety of meals. For a traditional pairing, enjoy it with Indian flatbreads like roti, paratha, chapati, or poori. If you are short on time, toast, buttered bread, or pav are simple and tasty options.
Get creative by using paneer bhurji as a filling for kathi rolls, wraps, or sandwiches. It also works wonderfully as the star ingredient in our paneer sandwiches, adding a rich and delightful twist. Spread coriander chutney on a paratha or chapati, add the bhurji, and roll it up for a convenient meal. Try it as a great filling for dosa or can be grilled between buttered bread slices with chutney for a crispy sandwich.
For more ways to enjoy this tasty Indian cheese, try our paneer stir-fry for a quick and delicious meal. If you’re in the mood for something comforting, our paneer and spinach curry is a great choice. For a lighter option, paneer skewers are fantastic for gatherings or as a fun addition to any meal.
Adjust the recipe to your fancy
One of the joys of cooking paneer bhurji is how easily it adapts to your preferences. Small adjustments can unlock new layers of depth and aroma, making it entirely your own.
The base ingredient you choose, whether oil, butter, or ghee, can shape the overall character of the recipe. Oil provides a clean, neutral platform, allowing the spices and cheese to take centre stage. Butter adds a smooth, creamy richness, while ghee imparts a nutty warmth that indulges every bite.
Try adding dried fenugreek leaves, also known as kasuri methi, to deepen the flavour. Crush the leaves between your palms before sprinkling them into the pan, releasing their earthy aroma and slightly bitter undertones.
For an extra layer of texture and taste, add peas for their natural sweetness or spinach for a touch of freshness. Adjust the spice level to suit your palate, whether by adding more chilli powder or toning it down. A squeeze of lemon juice at the end can brighten the dish, creating a lively and memorable finish.
